Sunday, June 22, 2025
Surrounded by his family, Shep slipped into eternity on January 18 with the stars guiding his way. Born in North Carolina, his family moved to Ithaca, New York, when he was a youngster.
A “faculty brat,” Shep majored in physics at Cornell University, followed by a Master of Arts in Teaching at UNC Chapel Hill. He taught both the whiz-bangs of physics and the wonders of astronomy at Western Piedmont Community College and Everett Community College.
His passions included scouting, sailing, birding, hiking, skiing, woodworking, photography, travel, and supporting his favorite sports teams (Go Heels!). He played his French Horn for years with the Everett Symphony and Everett Philharmonic. He sang with church choirs and the Everett Chorale. He even assembled a pipe organ!
Above all, he was a loving son, brother, uncle, husband, father, and grandfather. He leaves behind his wife, Sue; children – Kelly (with Marcus) and Geoff (with Mark); grandchildren – Carly, Gillian, André; numerous relatives, friends, and colleagues. The family is grateful to his medical team, Hospice of the Northwest, and Hawthorne Funeral Home. We all miss his dry and sly sense of humor.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, June 14, 11 a.m., at Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church in Mount Vernon, Washington.
